Country: USA  Region: California  Vintage: 2019 Varietal: Pinot noir  Category: Red Wine  Color: Red Producer: Littorai "Heidi and Ted Lemon are behind this family run winery which was created in 1993. Ted began his career in Burgundy after earning an oenology degree at the Université de Dijon in 1981. He has worked for some top Burgundian estates, such as Roumier, Bruno Clair and Domaine Dujac. Ted's skills earned him a position as winemaker and vineyard manager at Domaine Guy Roulot in Meursault, being the first American ever to do so in Burgundy! Heidi's path to farming was inspired after living and working in Germany following college and her subsequent work at several wineries in California, including Robert Long Vineyards and Stag's Leap Wine Cellars.In 1992, the Lemons set out to look for the best spot to grow Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, which they believe is along the littoral (coastal) zones of the continent. They finally found their spot in the 'true' north coast of California - the coastal mountains of Sonoma and Mendocino Counties. The varied soils and moderate climate with cooling fog provide the ideal environment to grow Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The majority of the sites are now farmed biodynamically and all sites are farmed using only organic materials. Littorai does not use certification systems. The wines are elegant, showing finesse rather than being full-bodied and over-ripe as with some Californian Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. We have focused on their Sonoma Coast wines, as the cool climate in this beautiful part of California gives wines of superb elegance." Vintage: In contrast to the year before, 2019 experienced a storm in the spring which brought significant levels of rainfall. This lead to lush growth and the vines were in a more vegetative state, meaning there was a larger focus on canopy management. The consistently warm weather that followed allowed for great fruit set. Fruit from the Sonoma Coast was harvested at the same time as Anderson Valley, as is usual. Product Allergens: Sulphites Label Winemaker: Ted Lemon Vineyards: Over 50% of the Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is comprised of declassified single vineyard lots, as well as the press wines from these sites, including Hirsch, The Pivot and The Haven vineyards. The balance of the blend is sourced from Twin Hills vineyard, located a stone’s throw from the Littorai estate, and Balinard Vineyard in Occidental. All of the sites are farmed organically and 85% is farmed using biodynamic methods. The proximity to the ocean and morning fog moderates the temperatures in the vineyards, producing wines of superb elegance This wine was made with 11% whole bunch fermentation in traditional open-top fermenters using native yeasts. Once malolactic fermentation was complete, the wine was aged in 25% new French oak barrels for a period of 16 months. Tasting Notes: This Pinot Noir is delicate, but demonstrates great depth of flavour. Aromas of blackberry and black cherry are accompanied by complex floral, herbal and spiced notes. On the palate, this wine is balanced and fresh, with supple, silky and understated tannins and good acidity which lends the wine finesse and precision. Food Suggestion: An outstanding match with roast game (grouse, pigeon, pheasant), duck in fruit sauces or soft, white, creamy cheeses. Closure: Natural Cork  ABV:13.1%